Synchronized solutions to develop modern commercial infrastructure

In recent years, Son La province has witnessed remarkable progress in the development of its commercial infrastructure, contributing to the formation of a diverse consumer ecosystem spanning both urban and rural areas. Until now, the province boasts 90 traditional markets, 1 shopping center, 4 general supermarkets, 34 electronics and mobile phone supermarkets operated by major retail chains such as Mobile World, FPT Shop, and MediaMart; 19 Winmart + mini-marts; and 181 petrol stations.

These are not only efficient distribution channels for goods but also clear indicators of the province’s shift toward a modern commercial structure - one that offers consumers faster and more convenient access to products and services.

Strengthening business capacity to boost domestic consumption

In the context where consumption is one of the three key pillars of economic growth -alongside investment and exports - the Department of Industry and Trade of Son La province has clearly identified the central role of enterprises and cooperatives in the goods and services supply chain. Accordingly, a number of substantive support programs have been implemented.

Specifically, the Department has organized training courses on online business skills, promoted e-commerce, and facilitated the introduction of agricultural and specialty products onto major e-commerce platforms such as Postmart, Voso, Shopee, and Lazada. At the same time, it has vigorously advanced the “Bringing Vietnamese goods to rural areas” program and established display and sales points for OCOP (One Commune One Product) items in various localities. These efforts not only help rural consumers access quality goods at reasonable prices but also create market expansion opportunities for producers and cooperatives.

In parallel, the organization of supply – demand connection events, trade fairs, and agricultural markets has fostered dynamic trade interactions between local and non-local businesses, thereby promoting domestic product consumption, increasing the circulation of goods, and stimulating market demand.

Market surveillance - Protecting the rights of consumers and businesses

Stimulating consumer demand cannot be separated from the task of market control. To establish a healthy and transparent business environment, the Son La market surveillance force has proactively coordinated with relevant sectors to intensify the inspection and monitoring of commercial activities—particularly during peak periods such as holidays, Tet, and the tourism season.

The results indicate that no hotspots of smuggling or commercial fraud have emerged in the province. However, there remain potential risks of counterfeit, substandard, and origin-unclear goods being traded—such as confectionery, cosmetics, and similar products. Therefore, efforts to raise consumer awareness, along with the enforcement of strict penalties, are being actively strengthened.

Sustainable growth driven by the domestic market

The comprehensive efforts of Son La’s Department of Industry and Trade in promoting domestic consumption have yielded clearly positive results. The province’s retail market continues to grow steadily, with purchasing power improving and consumer confidence being reinforced. Enterprises and cooperatives are becoming more resilient in their production and business operations, gradually asserting their position within regional and national supply chains.

Alongside a strategic focus on sustainable agriculture, agro-processing industries, and the digital transformation of commerce, domestic consumption is expected to remain a key driver in realizing Son La province’s target of achieving GRDP growth of over 8% in 2025.

Quoc Tuan

Translated by Huyen Vu